Electrical Behavior of two Hybrid types of Insulator Proposed for Using in Heavy Pollution Areas

One of the primary issues unique to the southern region of Iran is severe pollution, leading to frequent flashovers on insulators. This problem is directly related to the buildup of pollution on the insulator surface. Insulators are typically categorized into three main materials: glass, porcelain (cap-pin structure), and silicone (long rod structure). Each type of insulator material offers distinct advantages that make them suitable for various transmission line projects. To maximize the benefits of different materials, hybrid insulators have been developed. These hybrid insulators can be created by applying an RTV coating on ceramic insulators or by combining two different insulator materials, such as composite and porcelain, in series. In this study, the electric field and potential distribution in various combinations of porcelain and composite insulators in series were analyzed to assess the impact of RTV coating on porcelain insulators in reducing electrical stress and flashover risks. Furthermore, the leakage current of optimized hybrid insulator structures was compared to conventional insulators to evaluate their performance under steady-state working conditions in polluted environments. This research aims to provide valuable insights into improving the efficiency and reliability of transmission lines in areas prone to heavy pollution.